Cyberbullying: What is it and how to stop it

Cyberbullying is bullying with the use of digital technologies.

It can take place on social media, messaging platforms, gaming platforms and mobile phones.

And whether it is because it is conducted behind the perceived safety of a computer or phone screen, or because of the anonymity people are afforded through usernames, is something that children need to be aware of and have the knowledge on how to deal with it.

UNICEF asked children from all around the world what they would like to know about it and from the thousands of responses saw the top 10 questions asked...

1. Am I being bullied online? How do you tell the difference between a joke and bullying?

2. What are the effects of cyberbullying?

3. Who should I talk to if someone is bullying me online? Why is reporting important?

4. I’m experiencing cyberbullying, but I’m afraid to talk to my parents about it. How can I approach them?

5. How can I help my friends report a case of cyberbullying especially if they don’t want to do it?

6. How do we stop cyberbullying without giving up access to the internet?

7. How do I prevent my personal information from being used to manipulate or humiliate me on social media?

8. Is there a punishment for cyberbullying?

9. Internet companies don’t seem to care about online bullying and harassment. Are they being held responsible?

10. Are there any online anti-bullying tools for children or young people?

With these questions in mind UNICEF then bought together international cyberbullying and child protection experts, and key players in the world of social media like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to answer these and give their advice on ways to deal with online bullying.

Therefore please follow the below link to this UNICEF report, ideal for discussing with your child.

Finally, should you have any concerns about what your child experiences on the internet, please do not hesitate to speak to your child's teacher or a member of the Moorcroft Wood management team.